Making the Most of Positive Transfer: From Teaching Foreign Language to Teaching ESL.

Daniels, Rhonda V.

A discussion of second language (L2) teaching focuses on how language teachers can transfer their training and experience in L2 instruction to instruction in English as a Second Language (ESL). Learners of L2s and of ESL pass through the same learning stages, and while the skills focus may be different, the process is the same. A variety of language teaching approaches are examined, and ways in which they can be applied to either L2 or ESL, or elements that be applied in both contexts, are noted. The approaches include the natural approach, whole language approach, use of realia, Total Physical Response, the direct method, various methods of grouping students, and conventional and alternative assessment techniques both for placement and for monitoring student progress. Some ways to minimize bias in testing limited-English-proficient (LEP) students are also noted. The paper concludes that in classroom practice, methods and approaches used in the foreign language classroom will serve as solid background for language teachers called upon to teach ESL or LEP students. Contains six references. (MSE)